Record Number of Apprentices needed to deliver £1.2 Billion of work for the Central England Power N

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Central Networks has launched a major recruitment drive to sign up a record number of apprentices to help deliver £1.2bn of work on the power network in central England over the next five years.

In total, Central Networks wants 39 new apprentices on board in September – nearly double the amount recruited last year.

Managing Director Bob Taylor said: “We”re facing two challenges ““ delivering over £1bn of investment in our electricity network over the next five years and getting the right people on board with the right skills to help us get the job done.

“It’s a challenge we”re facing head on and our new apprentices will play a vital role in ensuring that we build and maintain a network fit for the 21st- century.”

The new apprentices will train for up to four years and, as well as gaining experience and technical skills, they will also be given the opportunity to study for a City & Guilds 2322 and achieve NVQ Level 3 in electricity Distribution and Transmission Engineering.

“As we own and operate enough lines and cable to go around the world four times, maintaining and improving our network is a big job and that’s why it’s so important that we get the right people on board,” said Bob.

“New apprentices will need the right qualifications, dedication and work ethos. In return they”ll receive excellent training in dedicated learning centres from a company that is committed to the highest standards of health and safety and investing in its people.”

Apprentices will train to be fitters, jointers or linesman working directly on the network.

Gemma Wilkson, aged 22, has recently completed a Central Networks” apprenticeship.

She said: “It was hard work but the training and the experience has been very enjoyable and enabled me to become an effective part of the Central Networks team ensuring a reliable electricity supply to over 4.8 million customers.

“It’s quite a responsibility, and when bad weather strikes the network we work under tough conditions – but getting the job done gives me great satisfaction.

“I”d recommend the apprenticeship to anyone with an interest in electrical engineering or mechanics. If you like getting hands on ““ this is the apprenticeship for you!”

The closing date for applications is May 20. For more information and to download an application form log onto www.central-networks.co.uk/apprentices